PFAS substitutes: looking for alternatives in the laboratory

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As part of a production process, you are looking to find PFAS substitutes...

What are PFAS?

PFASs, or per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances, are chemical compounds with non-stick, waterproofing and heat-resistant properties. They have been widely used since the 1950s in a variety of industrial sectors and everyday consumer products such as textiles, food packaging, non-stick coatings, cosmetics, plant protection products, etc.

Extractables and leachables

What are the risks of using PFAS?

PFAS are sometimes referred to as “eternal pollutants” because of their high resistance and persistence in the environment. Exposure to PFAS has become a source of concern, as they are now considered dangerous for both humans and the environment. On the one hand, they are considered carcinogenic and, on the other, they are highly polluting for the environment.

What do the regulations say about PFAS?

Because of their hazardous nature, PFAS are regulated at various levels:

The REACH regulation on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals limits the use of PFCAs from February 2023.
The Stockholm Convention has included PFOS since 2009. There are plans to add PFHxS and PFCA to the Stockholm Convention. In addition, the POP regulation bans PFOAs from 2020.
The Regulation on Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) already covers several PFASs, including PFOA, ammonium perfluorooctanoate (APFO), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA).
The Drinking Water Directive sets a limit of 0.5 μg/l for all PFAS.

How can FILAB help you find PFAS substitutes?

It is preferable for manufacturers to reformulate their products now, rather than having to rush after the adoption of new regulations or the tightening of existing ones.

With significant experience in the search for substitute substances and in the determination of PFAS by IC or LC-MS and LC-MSMS, FILAB can help you meet your needs by carrying out bibliographic studies and establishing a methodology for your project or in the search for new suppliers.

If you are looking for new suppliers to find an alternative to your PFAS-containing materials, FILAB can help you in this search. With the help of material selection tools, the R&D department can offer you materials that comply with the new PFAS regulations.

Product development or optimisation

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical park of 5,200m²
A complete analytical park of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
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